New York Jets fan Ed Anzalone writes in a guest column for Metro New York newspaper Sunday that he will no longer lead the "J-E-T-S!" chants at home games or wear his firefighter's hat because "confrontations" between him and other fans "have become more common."

The former New York City firefighter, who left the Jets' 49-19 loss to New England at halftime Thursday night, says that MetLife Stadium has become divided over support for quarterbacks Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow. Anzalone, who used to wear Bruce Harper's No. 42 jersey, has been wearing Sanchez's No. 6 this season.

Anzalone says his choice to support Sanchez has led to more frequent incidents, and doesn't want "to lose my temper and make a stupid mistake."

Coach Rex Ryan said he was "disappointed" at hearing that Anzalone would not be back.

"I love that guy's passion and energy that he would bring and, really, he's a great fan," Ryan said. "I really admire him. ... I like Fireman Ed. If he could play linebacker, I'd use him."